Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Our little girl is going to school. I can hardly believe it yet in many ways I feel like she is so ready and deserves a little bit of normal in her life. I have so many fears about sending her, fears that many parents do not have and I'm sure find it hard to understand. Madison has grown up in a hospital. I remember when Madison was a little toddler -- only 15 months old, toddling around the halls not even reaching the counter of the nurses station. Now she is sitting at the desk paging staff over the intercom. I really pray that she can find her place in the real world. I know she can. She is a bright social little girl, but I still have so many fears. I fear that she will one day have to face that fact that our life in not normal. Right now she has no clue. I truly believe she thinks the way we live is how every little girl grows up -- what will happen when she sees there is another way?

Will she want out?

I can most likely guarantee that none of these thoughts ever probably enter her little four year old mind, but I can't help but wonder -- I am her mommie after all. Tonight is Madison's Pre-K orientation. It's a big change for Adam and I. It really pushes our little family to the next level -- having a child in school. Are we ready? I guess the real question is...

She looks so excited. This is a wonderful opportunity for your family to feel "normal". Kids adjust as long as us parents can handle it!! Praying this week is filled to the brim with new exciting changes and that Madi has a great start to school.

While most of us do not live with the life consuming health issue that can rule your days...I'm thinking that we all watch our children have to struggle through "different" from normal.

Whether it's dealing with a 6 week baby brother being diagnosed with a brain tumor and loosing his battle 7 months later or as a teenager having EVERY gland in your body go wacko for 2 1/2 years or to lose your handicapped sister as your mother's mind is getting lost because of Alzheimers....this was the world of our youngest daughter and all her friends.

Yes they all went out into the world and wished for the "normal" they saw in others lives...but Karen, the depth of love and compassion in their hearts...who God has created them to be...none of us mom's would trade that for anything. Pain and suffering is part of life...I'm thinking you are SO RIGHT about the school/world being ready for your amazing daughter. I think she'll knock their socks off.

God knits our children together and it is hard to watch them fall outside of the "norm"...and I TOTALLY GET your fears...but God is not surprised...He has had a plan for Madison from before she was born....

Our mom's hearts go through the ringer sometimes but God loves them more so we have to hang on to that....a whole new world opening up...praying God gives you guys peace because He already knows and He will go before and grant you favor at the most surprising times.

Madison is so beautiful and I completely believe that that beauty goes WAY BEYOND skin deep.

Cannot believe Maddie is starting school!! She looks sooo cute in her outfit! I've watched her grow up into an amazing little girl! Good luck Maddie!! Karen - Please tell her I said that I am so proud of her!! We all love and support you from AI!! Love, Cristin Fretz Haas

What fantastic pictures of one very" Beautiful " little girl!! Have a Great time in school Madison!!! I know you'll make mommy and daddy proud!!Gavin's pic are also great!!! Always in my thoughts and Prayers.Much Love to All :)